3 Iranian Women Footballers Withdraw Asylum Bid, Plan Return from Australia

Three members of the Iran women’s national football team who previously sought asylum in Australia have decided to withdraw their applications and return to Iran, the Australian government confirmed on Sunday.

The development comes days after Australia granted humanitarian visas to seven Iranian footballers who requested protection, citing fears of possible persecution if they returned home after refusing to sing the national anthem during a match at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

According to officials, four of the seven players who initially sought asylum have now opted to leave Australia. One of them had earlier reversed her decision last week, while three others have now followed suit.

Australia’s Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, said the players informed authorities of their decision after being given several opportunities to review their options.

“After telling Australian officials they had made this decision, the players were given repeated chances to talk about their options,” Burke said in a statement.

He noted that while the Australian government could ensure the players were fully informed of the options available to them, it could not remove the pressures surrounding their difficult choices.

“While the Australian Government can ensure that opportunities are provided and communicated, we cannot remove the context in which the players are making these incredibly difficult decisions,” he added.

The asylum request had drawn international attention following reports that the players feared possible repercussions for their actions during the tournament.